When Governor Paterson proposed the “obesity tax” on sugary soda several weeks ago, many thought it was a good idea. It was praised as a smart way to raise $400 million a year while deterring people from consuming something unhealthy.

To quote State Deputy Health & Human Services Secretary Joe Baker, “The tax on health club memberships is something we're doing to raise revenue. There's plenty of other ways... that folks can get out and exercise, particularly children.”